As dawn breaks in Auckland on Sunday, Naomi Osaka prepares to dive into a breakfast routine that has become second nature to her. Before the highly anticipated ASB Classic 2025 final, the Japanese Tennis sensation will enjoy a plate of smoked salmon accompanied by fried eggs and an omelette. It’s a habit she has strictly adhered to since arriving in New Zealand on December 24, showing her passion for routine, a common trait among professional athletes.
“I find myself eating the same breakfast every day and I’m starting to get a little tired of it,” Osaka said with a laugh. “Tennis players are notoriously superstitious. So it’s the same breakfast, the same tunes when I head to the court, even the same playlist in the car. I lace my right shoe before the left – it’s is a lot Honestly, it can be exhausting sometimes, but apparently it works wonders for me.”
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On Sunday, Osaka will take the court with a mix of nerves and excitement. Not only is it her first final in almost three years since the Miami Open in March 2022, but it also marks her first appearance at this level at the start of a new season, a scenario she has never encountered previously.
“It’s really unique, especially since it’s the first tournament of the year. I cherish this moment and I don’t take anything for granted,” Osaka reflected. “The past year has brought enormous personal growth, and I want to build on this experience.”
In addition to the importance of this WTA 250 tournament final, Osaka has an impressive track record of four Grand Slam titles and formidable performances at WTA 1000 events. Yet she admits to having encountered challenges on the smaller stages, often being labeled as a “big game player.” His approach has evolved since his return to competition last January, aiming to solidify his legacy with consistent performances at all levels.
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“I am determined to take every match seriously. If I do slip up, I want it to be in a hard-fought contest, building a reputation as a fighter within the tennis community,” Osaka said. “I want to embody the ethic of fighting for every point.”
Looking back on her journey, Osaka admits, “In my youth, I may not have fought as hard as I could and at times I took tournaments lightly. Now my goal is to enjoy every day, savor the learning opportunities and give my best.”
This fighting spirit was palpable throughout the week. Although Osaka enjoyed a perceived manageable draw, with top-seeded players dropping to her side, the difficult windy conditions tested all competitors. However, she was able to adapt and raise her level of play.
“Honestly, I feel like I played really well,” Osaka expressed. “The variable weather made things difficult to gauge, but I see it as a testament to my ability to adapt quickly.”
Saturday’s match against world number 82 Alycia Parks highlighted her resilience. Parks started strong, unleashing powerful serves and imposing pressure, breaking early to lead 3-1. However, Osaka recalibrated and responded with vigor.
“In every match, adjustments are essential,” Osaka noted. “Parks was aggressive against my serve, so I aimed a strategy to counter her strengths.”
Osaka responded immediately, regaining the advantage, as she held serve at 5-4, overcoming two break points to win the first set in 36 minutes. The second set saw her domination as Parks, perhaps tired from her previous match in the quarter-finals, faltered. Osaka finished the match with a solid 6-4, 6-2 victory in just 71 minutes.
“She came onto the court hard, and I had to stay calm,” Osaka said. “My goal was to find a rhythm in our rallies, which wasn’t easy, but against most players I gain confidence as the rallies progress.”
Now, with the final approaching, Osaka is ready to take the final step. Few would bet against her given her vast experience and big-game mentality. However, her opponent, talented young Dane Claudia Tauson, also showed remarkable resilience, putting aside top seed Madison Keys and former Grand Slam winner Sofia Kenin to reach this stage.
“I’m really looking forward to the match,” Osaka admitted. “I hope this adventure continues, but whatever happens, this journey has been immensely rewarding.”
